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Throughout most of the 1990s, Julia Roberts was the highest-paid actress in Hollywood.
Roberts finally won the Oscar in 2001 for playing Erin Brockovich in the film of the same name.
She continued enjoying success in different genres, eventually also conquering television and streaming.
To this day, audiences still relate Roberts with Vivian Ward.
Other critics called the movie superficial, ugly, and obsessed with appearances and status.
And yet, the film remains popular amongst audiences, in large partbecause of Roberts' winning performance.
Roberts plays Gilbert, a recently divorced woman who embarks on a self-discovery journey around the world.
Directed by Ryan Murphy,Eat Pray Lovedoes little to include the emotional depth of the source material.
Still, Roberts shines through the mess, delivering an irresistible performance full of warmth and empathy.
For a while,Pretty Womanenjoyed a “guilty pleasure” status.
The movie perfectly captures a specific time in American culture when success meant money and status.
It’s easy to forget thatthe movie was both a critical triumphand a huge box office success.
Roberts plays Anna Scott, a world-famous actress who falls for a small bookshop owner.
If it was any other actress, audiences might react with skepticism.
But when it’s Julia Roberts, there’s no way of denying it.
The release ofPretty Womanchanged that.
The movie was a huge box office success and propelled Roberts to instant A-List status.
Movies like 1995’sSomething to Talk Aboutand 1996’sMary Reillywere critical and commercial disappointments.
Success came back to her door thanks to the 1997 romantic comedyMy Best Friend’s Wedding.
The role is atypical for a rom-com lead, and audiences welcomed the change.
Vivian Is Best: Consolidating A Genre
The romantic comedy genre is as old as Hollywood itself.
Movies likeThe Philadelphia Story,Roman Holiday, andAdam’s Ribare prime examples of the genre in classic Hollywood.
The romantic comedy suffered a decline during the seventies and early eighties.
Erin Brockovich Is Better: Oscar!
The film was not only critically acclaimed but also a commercial success.
WithErin Brockovich, Roberts received the best reviews of her career.
Her presence looms large, authoritative, and effervescent, delivering every line with fiery conviction.
Vivian Is Best: An Instant Icon
Vivian Ward is an undeniable cinematic icon.
Through and through, it’s Roberts' incandescence that powers Vivian.
The actress’s irresistible charm creates a sweet and charming character that’s impossible to dislike.
Yet Roberts does it and makes it look effortless in the family dramaAugust: Osage County.
Roberts plays the eldest daughter, Barbara, an embittered woman who grows tired of her family’s antics.
NEXT:5 Ways Furiosa Is Charlize Theron’s Best Role (& 5 Better Alternatives)
